Long upsets fastman Fitzgerald in Ballivor GP as Buggle returns

UCD's Darragh Long has taken his second winning of the season; seeing off veteran fastman Micheál Fitzgerald of Clonmel CC in Ballivor. Above, winning the Ian Gallahar Memorial in Meath back in February (Photo: Darragh McManamon)

Darragh Long took his second win of the season this afternoon when he galloped to victory in the Ballivor GP in Meath; an event promoted by Navan Road Club.

The UCD CC man was too quick for renowned fast-man Micheál Fitzgerald (Clonmel CC) with Aaron Buggle (Fixx Coffee) making a return appearance and notching third.

He adds today's win to the victory he took in the Ian Gallahar Memorial in Co Meath back in February.

The race saw the A4 group let off first, followed by the A3s and finally the combined A1 and A2 group.

The high pace set by the scratch group meant the race was all back together on the second lap.

And though there were a number of strong accelerations and riders gaining modest gaps off the front, nothing pulled out any meaningful time.

That paved the way for a bunch sprint which Long won in fine style.

Ronan O'Flynn (Galway Bay CC) took best unplaced A2 rider, while David Casserly (Lakeside Wheelers) and Brendan Harte (Bohermeen) took the prizes for best A3 and A4 riders, respectively.